The importance of Sensory Brush
The Sensory Brush, also called as Sensory Wilbarger Brush Protocol, is a very specific technique used for many effective skills but most for tactile defensiveness and other sensory processing challenges that the child might have. This technique can be effective, but it is important to know how to apply this sensory brush.
It is very easily to use, however it is strictly recommended consult a specialist before to apply the brush. For children who has hypo or hypertonia it highly suggested. This sensory tool is also recommended for reduce or increase the sensitivity of the muscle tone.
The Wilbarger Brush is often a part of a Sensory Integration or Sensory Therapy Program run by an Occupational Therapist. It involves brushing the body with a small sensory brush throughout the day.
The complete protocol usually takes 2-3 minutes to administer. The first step involves using a soft, plastic, sensory brush which is run over the child's skin, using very firm pressure; it is like a deep pressure massage.
Important: Brushing starts at the arms and works down to the feet. The areas like: face, chest, and stomach are never brushed because these are very sensitive areas.
Some of the benefits from this sensory brush may include improved ability to transition between daily activities, improved attention span, enhanced coordination, decreased fear or discomfort of being touched and better self-regulation.
Points to remember about sensory brushing:
- Brushing needs to be done every 2 hours, faithfully (during waking hours). If not, it can backfire on the nervous system and create further sensory dysregulation and sensory processing difficulties.
- The technique must be taught by a trained professional in order to establish competence in the amount of pressure and pattern for brushing.
- Do not let your child brush him/herself.
- Never brush the stomach, it can cause a severe systemic reaction.
- If the child is not tolerating the brushing, do NOT force it, not even in the beginning. The cornerstone and number one concept of the sensory integration theory is, child led and child directed.
It is also recommended to provide joint compression. This can be achieved through a variety of activities.The best part is deep pressure touch is the most accepted form of sensory input and is regulating, organizing, and calming or alerting for the brain. Toss in a little joint traction and joint compression via wheelbarrow walking, jumping, hopping, hanging from a bar, etc.
It is important to know that if brushing is included as part of your sensory home program simply as a form of deep pressure touch and tactile input that the child enjoys then the above guidelines are not as rigid.
Consult with your occupational therapist what is the best for your child, and if your child will be benefit from this Sensory Brushing Protocol.
Also check the following link in order to see how to apply the protocol:
